Drugs and the American Dream: An Anthology

Drugs and the American Dream contains some of the most compelling observations I have read on the drug scene in America.  This anthology contains those classic studies that continue to stand the test of time in their reflection on the dynamics of drug use; also included here is exciting new research that pushes the boundaries of our understanding of drug use in American society.  The editors have tapped some of the most readable research in the drug field, conducted and written by the most skilled ethnographers and seasoned observers of the drug scene. 

Charles Faupel, Auburn University

 

This comprehensive volume offers some of the most compelling arguments about our toxicmanic culture ever assembled. The impressive scope and clarity of the material offers the reading public both lay and academic an exceptionally valuable resource. As one would expect from a work assembled by  Patricia and  Peter Adler along with colleague Patrick O'Brian, , this comprehensive thesaurus of sociological, anthropological and medical knowledge offers  a wide range of  superb contributors who makes this a reference work particularly relevant to students, scholars, policy makers and general public.  This is not only an excellent volume of research on drugs but also brings possibly the best assemblage of noted experts on the subject. This array of social scientists together captures successfully the quality and quantity of research in the field and is an Invitation for all who read this remarkable text to engage the social sciences in an exciting and educational way. 

Terry Williams, The New School

Adler, Adler and O'Brien have constructed an exciting anthology on the sociological aspects of drug use and abuse.  This text assembles some of the most important readings on drug use by those involved in the craft of the sociological study of drugs.  The rich, descriptive works anthologized in this reader range from classic, foundational articles on substance use to incisive, contemporary work on recent drug trends.  Collectively, this anthology provides a critical and comprehensive assessment of the social dimensions of drug use.  I applaud Adler, Adler, & O'Brien for developing a reader with both significant pedagogical value for the classroom and practical utility as a reference tool in scholarly work. 

 

Brian C Kelly, Purdue University